International Journal of Horticulture, 2025, Vol.15, No.1, 41-50 http://hortherbpublisher.com/index.php/ijh 43 performs well in both local and export markets (Lamaro et al., 2023). Additionally, OFSP varieties have gained prominence, particularly in Africa and Asia, where they are used to combat vitamin A deficiency (Low et al., 2020). These varieties exhibit strong adaptability to subtropical climates and thrive with moderate rainfall and well-drained soils (Daood et al., 2024; Cheboi et al., 2024). ‘Xin Xiang’ and ‘Yan Shu 25’ are the two largest fresh sweet potato varieties planted in China. ‘Xinxiang’ is a representative variety of mini sweet potatoes due to its beautiful appearance, good marketability, delicate flesh, thin skin like paper, low crude fiber content, high soluble sugar content, and a powdery, sweet, fragrant, and glutinous taste. Due to its high yield and high content of carotenoids, ‘Yanshu 25’ has a golden yellow color of inner tuber after steaming or boiling, high sweetness, strong aroma, and delicate flesh. It is used for baking potatoes and has an excellent taste, earning it the title of ‘Roast Potato Queen’ among consumers (Figure 2). Figure 2 Fresh sweet potato varieties ‘Xinxiang’ and ‘Yanshu 25’, there are color of sweet potato chunks after steaming and cooking (photo by Xihu Li). Image caption: a: Tuber inner color of ‘Heart Fragrance’; b: Tuber inner color of ‘Yan Shu 25’ 3.2 Key selection criteria: taste, yield, disease resistance, and market adaptability The selection of high-yield fresh-eating sweet potato varieties hinges on several factors. Taste and texture are critical, as sweeter varieties with smoother textures attract more consumers. Yield potential is another key factor, with optimal varieties yielding 20~30 tons per hectare (Cheboi et al., 2024). Disease resistance is essential for sustainable cultivation, with resistance to pests like the sweet potato weevil and diseases such as black rot ensuring crop viability (Laurie et al., 2017). Market adaptability further influences variety selection; varieties must meet consumer preferences and withstand post-harvest challenges such as transport and storage, ensuring they maintain quality through the supply chain (Low et al., 2020; Alam, 2021). 3.3 Regional market demand and consumer preferences for fresh-eating varieties Regional demand for fresh-eating sweet potato varieties is rising, driven by increased awareness of their health benefits and culinary versatility. In Africa and Asia, orange-fleshed varieties are promoted for their high beta-carotene content, which supports public health initiatives aimed at reducing vitamin A deficiency (Low et al., 2020). These varieties are popular not only for home consumption but also as ingredients in processed foods, including snacks, baked goods, and baby foods, expanding their market reach (Cheboi et al., 2024). In Zhejiang, Some consumers prefer high dry rate varieties, such as ‘Zhe Shu 75’, and demand a powdery taste; However, some consumers prefer low dry weight varieties such as ‘Xinxiang’, which require a soft and sticky taste. In addition, the growing trend toward healthier diets has increased consumer demand for nutrient-dense foods, positioning fresh-eating sweet potatoes as an attractive option for health-conscious consumers globally.
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